Homeowner’s New Air Conditioner Installation Tips

Homeowners have learned to appreciate, maybe even depend upon an HVAC system that keeps the house warm or cool at the appropriate time. We prepare for events that might leave us without HVAC (power outages and storms) and determine ways we can improve efficiency. In this article, we will introduce a couple of tools to help you prepare for the necessity of replacing your HVAC system and what is involved with a New Air Conditioner Installation.

Introducing—the calendar. A calendar can help you keep your system maintained and prepare for an eventual replacement. Consider these steps after your New Air Conditioner Installation:

• Set a quarterly schedule to change your air filter. Air filter replacement makes #1 on the list of maintenance steps for HVAC systems. Changing the air filter helps remove dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. Removing these particles means they no longer interfere with the function of your HVAC system.Changing your air filter will reduce stress on your HVAC system and extend its functional usefulness. So find a mnemonic device to help you remember to change your air filter: the official change of season, birthdays, or a certain day of the month.
• Set an annual reminder to schedule an annual HVAC maintenance tune-up. An annual checkup usually ranks #2 on the top list of maintenance steps; an HVAC professional inspects the system, cleans interior parts, and tests various components. The refrigerant gas pressure will be tested to ensure the system is not leaking.Not only will the cleaning reduce stress, but the tests will catch minor problems before they become major issues. Annual inspections are affordable and a great step to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently for as long as possible. Perhaps you can use a computer calendar to give yourself a reminder at the same time each year.
• Projecting out a little, set a scheduled reminder to clean your ductwork every 3 to 5 years. Every time your blower cycle stops, the air flowing through the ducts slows and comes to a relative stop. As it does, gravity causes the airborne particles in the duct to drop and coat the walls of the ducts. Some dust will be picked up when the air begins moving again, but most remains on the ductwork wall.After a few years, the ductwork walls accumulate a significant layer of dust. Since this dust works against your entire HVAC system, scheduling a regular cleaning helps to extend the life of your system. Energy agencies recommend cleaning ductwork every 3 to 5 years.¹ Several conditions might encourage you to clean ducts more often, including family members with asthma, allergies, or breathing difficulties.
• Discover the year your current HVAC system was installed and project out 20 years. HVAC systems are not guaranteed to last that long, but this will give you a target date to anticipate replacing the system. This will be useful information when combined with the next tool.

With reminders to render care to your HVAC system, you will be in great shape to assess its condition and make an informed decision concerning replacement. Additional information that becomes useful include:

• Utility bills. A gradual increase in energy cost is normal, but a cost spike might indicate your HVAC system is functioning inefficiently and costing you money.
• Energy utilities benefit when homeowners use less energy and often offer rebates on energy bills for installing a new, energy-efficient system. Here is a quick explanation:
  • energy companies must plan for energy peaks, for hours and days when the combined energy use is at its highest.
  • In order to meet the peak demand, a power plant might be built that sits idle most of the time and only gets “turned on” during peak days. That is an expensive backup plan.
  • When customers reduce energy use, the energy peak is lower and the next idle plant will not be needed, reducing the cost to the company and customers.
• Adding a new room might overtax your existing HVAC system. An additional family member might change your idea of comfort if you are “just getting by” with your old system.

Now, add a calculator to the information you have accumulated.

• Research and uncover a broad guesstimate for the cost of replacing your existing system.
• Calculate how many months before your system reaches the 20-year mark.
• Consider setting aside a portion of the cost each month in anticipation of replacement. If you can complete this monthly goal, you will be better prepared to purchase a new HVAC when the time comes for replacement.

Have a question about Air Conditioner Installation?

For more information about R.M. Mullinix and Air Conditioner Installation schedule an appointment, or visit our HVAC Repair information page.

¹ https://www.directenergy.ca/learn/home-improvement/signs-your-ducts-need-cleaning#:~:text=Experts%20advise%20having%20your%20air,frequently%20than%20the%20recommended%20average.